NSF launches $56-million AI access program across all U.S. states and territories
The National Science Foundation announced funding Tuesday to establish AI coordination hubs in every U.S. state and territory, part of a federal effort to ensure workers, businesses and communities can participate in the AI economy.
The NSF TechAccess: AI-Ready America initiative will distribute up to $1 million annually per hub over three years, with a possible fourth year. The program targets three gaps: workforce AI literacy and skills, small business and local government adoption, and hands-on learning pathways like internships and project-based programs.
NSF is partnering with the Department of Agriculture, Department of Labor, and Small Business Administration on the effort. Applications for the coordination hubs are due June 23.
How the hubs will work
Each hub will connect local partners and coordinate AI deployment based on state and local priorities. NSF plans to select up to 56 hubs total, covering all states, territories, and Washington, D.C.
The agency will later select a national coordination lead to facilitate knowledge sharing among hubs and run separate competitions for AI-Ready Catalyst awards to pilot and scale new approaches.
Who needs to apply
Organizations interested in running a hub can register for an informational webinar on April 14 at 1 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. More details are available through the official funding opportunity announcement.
The initiative aligns with the White House AI Action Plan and reflects concerns about AI competitiveness. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said the program will give workers "the skills, knowledge, and training needed to succeed in an AI-driven economy."
The effort extends to rural areas. USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Director Jaye Hamby said the program will help farmers and ranchers adopt AI tools to improve efficiency and resilience.
What this means for your sector
If you work in government, research, or education, this funding creates new opportunities to shape how your community approaches AI adoption. AI for Government resources can help you understand implementation strategies. For those focused on workforce development, AI for Education provides context on building training programs.
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